“Lonely & Hangry: How Loneliness Leads to Bad Food Choices in Women”
So, it turns out that being lonely can make you fat. Yes, you read that right. Researchers have found that women who are feeling a bit lonely are more likely to reach for that extra slice of cake or tub of ice cream. I mean, who needs a man when you have Ben and Jerry, right?
The study, published in the Journal of Health Psychology, surveyed over 500 women and found that those who reported feeling lonely also reported higher levels of food cravings. So, if you find yourself sitting on the couch, binge-watching Netflix and drowning your sorrows in a tub of cookie dough, you’re not alone. Well, technically you are, but you get the point.
Lead researcher Dr. Emily Parker suggests that loneliness triggers a biological response that leads to cravings for high-calorie comfort foods. So, next time you’re feeling a bit down in the dumps, just blame it on your brain chemistry. It’s not your fault that you can’t resist that delicious slice of pizza, right?
But fear not, my lonely ladies, there is hope. The study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to help women manage their emotions and cope with feelings of loneliness in healthier ways. So, instead of reaching for that bag of chips, maybe try going for a walk or calling up a friend. Or, you know, just eat the damn chips. Life is short, after all.
In all seriousness, though, loneliness is a serious issue that can have detrimental effects on both mental and physical health. It’s important to address the root cause of these food cravings and find healthier ways to cope with loneliness. So, next time you’re feeling a bit blue, maybe try reaching out to someone instead of reaching for that pint of ice cream.
And remember, ladies, you are not alone in your struggles. We’re all just trying to navigate this crazy thing called life, one slice of pizza at a time. So, here’s to embracing our loneliness, our cravings, and everything in between. Cheers to being beautifully flawed and deliciously human.
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Source: The Washington Post
URL: https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2024/04/11/loneliness-cravings-obesity-women/